

                   *---== ST REPORT ONLINE MAGAZINE ==---*
                          """""""""""""""""""""""""


                     "The Original Online ST Magazine"
                      ------------------------------- 

 March 10, 1989                                          Volume III  No.78

==========================================================================


                         ST Report Online Magazine 
                       ------------------------------
                           Post Office Box   6672
                           Jacksonville,  Florida
                                32236 ~ 6672

                                R.F. Mariano
                             Publisher - Editor
                 _________________________________________

                   Voice: 904-783-3319  10 AM - 4 PM EST

                     BBS: 904-786-4176  ~ 12-24-96 HST
                 _________________________________________

                      **  F-NET/FIDOMAIL NODE 350  **
               Our support BBS carries ALL issues of STReport
                                   and
                An International list of private BBS systems
                carrying STReport for their users enjoyment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                 Highlights
                                 ----------

   ~ The Podium                            ~ CPU Report
   ~ Uniterm - A Review                    ~ Princeton UltraSync Monitor
   ~ Galaxy - Covert                       ~ CPU - NewsWire Update
   ~ ST REPORT CONFIDENTIAL                ~ SCOUT WORLD 1989

               *****   USERGROUPS' FUTURE ENDANGERED?   *****
                    *** TOS 1.4 READY FOR CHIP SETS! ***
                 *******  FEDERATED .....HISTORY!!!  ******

                           ...and much more...

 ========================================================================
 AVAILABLE ON:     COMP-U-SERVE  ~  DELPHI  ~  GENIE  ~  THE SOURCE
 ========================================================================


> The Podium
  ----------

      Time always shows us the right methods of any successful technique
and it certainly hasn't let us down this year.  The real energetic force
behind the success of Atari's comeback drive has been Mr. Sig Hartmann and
his entourage of more than capable folks on the staffs assigned to get the
job done.  We congratulate all of them on the fine job they are doing.  At
bonus time, we sincerely hope Robin and Cindy are not forgotten.

      While Atari is seemingly on the right track, there are those who
appear to be dedicated to the art of grandstanding at the expense of
others.  Rather than react and bore the Atari community with retaliatory
remarks, we ask that the readers judge us by our performance since we
assumed control and ownership of STReport Online Magazine and not by the
haranguing of a few mouthy individuals.  Hopefully, the actions of these
people will not detract from Atari's emerging success story.


                                     thanks again for your support,

                                                Ralph.....



:CORRECTION:
------------
For Record, G+Plus Dos, the excellent replacement for Gdos by Codehead
Software, is officially in release version # 1.2 .  NOT 2.1  <<sorry>>.




                            "1989 - ATARI'S QUEST!"

**************************************************************************


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                              to the Readers

                         ST REPORT ONLINE MAGAZINE

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                                    or
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**************************************************************************




> CPU REPORT
  ==========

Issue # 12


By Michael Arthur


Remember When....

     In Summer 1985, Atari showed a prototype of its CD-ROM at CES, saying
that it could be available as early as Fall 1985, for under $500.00


CPU Systems Roundup IV
=======================


            Dream Computer Systems II:  The more things change....
            ------------------------------------------------------


Part I


      Often we have heard the cliche about how quickly the computer
industry changes, and how technology is improving at such an incredibly
fast rate.  But how often are new, more powerful computers and peripherals
seen, anyway?

      So as to explore this, and to examine the growing power of computer
systems, the series, "Dream Computer Systems", will be appearing in CPU
Report quarterly.  To attempt to determine which Dream System really IS
the best, I have made a list of the most powerful microcomputers on the
market, comparing their features to make an objective opinion.

      I ignored variables like operating systems and software, and
concentrated on the actual computers' features and speed, the greatest
amount of mass storage you could attain, and the best graphics that system
could provide.  While operating systems and software are a definite factor
in a computer, I wanted to aim for the best hardware itself, to which you
could add the other items.  A few additions in format have been made,
though....

      In the first Dream Computer Systems essay, mass storage was limited
to 300 Megabytes (except in the case of the NeXT computer), and the price
of the system was kept under 25,000 dollars, a reasonable amount for a
true Dream System.  In this edition, the focus will be on having both
removable storage (such as that on the NeXT computer or Bernoulli drives),
and mass storage (or hard disks) on the same system.  In order to do this,
though, means that the price of these systems might not be under 25,000
dollars.  But then, who said Dream Systems would be inexpensive, anyway?

      After doing some research, I found several configurations that could
truly claim to be "Dream Systems".  Shown in no particular order, here is
my list:

       (Warning:  Do not be surprised by the Retail Prices Shown.)

System #1
---------

  -  Dell System 325 - Total Cost of System: $18,800.00 Dollars.

     This IBM Compatible is a 25 MHZ 80386 system with 4 Megabytes of RAM
and 8 expansion slots.

     To FURTHER enhance this system, I would add a 25 MHZ 80387 Math
Coprocessor, a Four Megabyte RAM expansion, a Bernoulli Box from Iomega
Corp. using 40 Megabyte Removable Cartridges, a Storage Dimensions (Maxtor)
SpeedStor AT650E 650 Megabyte Hard Disk, Orchid's Designer VGA card, and
an NEC Multisync Plus VGA Monitor.


So with this system, you would have:

      Dell System 325 w/25 MHZ 80387 Chip  (Cost: $6900.00)
      Dell 4 Megabyte RAM Expansion (Cost: $2200.00)
      Iomega 40 Megabyte Bernoulli Box (Cost: $1800.00)
      SpeedStor 650 Megabyte Hard Disk (Cost: $5995.00)
      Orchid Designer VGA Card (Cost: $500.00)
              
      NEC Multisync Plus Monitor (Cost: $1400.00)
          


VGA Graphics Resolution: 320*200 with 256 Colors out of 256,000
                         640*480 with 16  Colors out of 256,000

       Extended Mode has 640*480 with 256 Colors out of 256,000
                         800*600 with 16  Colors out of 256,000
                         800*600 with 256 Colors out of 256,000
                        1024*768 with 16  Colors out of 256,000


Faults with System:  A bigger Removable Tape Drive would be preferable....


System #2
---------

  - Macintosh IIx w/REO-650 Magneto-Optical Drive - Total Cost: $27,100.00                           ENEMY REPORT Issue #12

      This Macintosh uses a 16 MHZ 68030 with a 16 MHZ 68882 Math Chip,
Four Megabytes of RAM, and 6 NuBus Expansion Slots.  It also comes with a
1.44 Meg High Density Disk Drive, and uses the SWIM (Sander-Woz Integrated
Machine) Disk Controller chip to allow the Mac to read/write to MS-DOS and
OS/2 formatted disks.

      To FURTHER enhance this system, I would add a DayStar Digital 33/030
Accelerator II, which has a 33 MHZ 68030/68882 combo, Pinnacle Micro's
REO-650 Magneto-Optical Drive, which uses 650 Megabyte Removable/Erasable
Optical Cartridges like those found for the NeXT drive, four MicroSnap
MacDIP 1 Megabyte RAM Cards from Microtech Inc., for 4 Extra Megs of RAM,
and a Taxan 980 Monitor to accompany a SuperMac Spectrum/24 Video Card,
which lets the Mac have a 1024*768 display with 16 Million colors at the
same time.


So with this system you would have:

      Macintosh IIx w/4 Megs of RAM (Cost: $7769.00)
     
      DayStar Digital 33/030 Accelerator II (Cost: $7000.00)
      4 MicroTech MicroSnap MacDIP 1 Mb RAM Cards (Cost: $800.00 total)
      REO-650 Magneto-Optical Cartridge Drive (Cost: $5995.00)
      Spectrum/24 Video Board (Cost: $2000.00)
      Taxan 980 20-Inch Monitor (Cost: 3500.00)


Macintosh II Resolution:  640*400 with 256 Colors out of 16 Million

 With Spectrum/24 it has 1024*768 with 16 Million colors at the same time.

Faults with System: Besides cost, none whatsoever. A VAST improvement over
                    the previous Dream System....


System #3
--------

    - Amiga 2000 w/CSA FastTrack Card - Total Cost of System: $18,170.00

      This is an Amiga 2000 with 1 Meg of RAM and 7 expansion slots. Along
with this would be a CSA FastTrack Card having a 14.23 MHZ 68030 and a
33 MHZ 68882 Math Coprocessor, along with 2 ProRAM 2000 RAM Expansion Cards
from Progressive Peripherals with 4 Megs of RAM each, and a CSA DragStrip
Card to speed up the the 16-bit RAM into 32-bit RAM, for a total of eight
Megabytes of 32-Bit RAM.

    I would also add Supra's FD-10 Disk Drive, using 10 Megabyte 5 1/4
Inch Disks, a 300 Megabyte Hard Drive made by ABCO Inc., Moniterm's 19-inch
monitor, which lets the Amiga have a 1008*800 display in monochrome, and
Microway's FlickerFixer, which lets the Amiga have a noninterlaced 640*400
display with an NEC Multisync monitor.

So with this system you would have:


      Amiga 2000 w/color monitor (Cost: $2400.00)
      CSA FastTrack Accelerator Card (Cost: $3400.00)
      CSA DragStrip 32-Bit RAM Adapter (Cost: $800.00)
      2 ProRAM 2000 Memory Cards w/4 Mb of RAM each (Cost: $2520.00 total)
      Supra FD-10 Disk Drive (Cost: $1000.00)
      ABCO Inc. 300 Megabyte Hard Drive (Cost: $4500.00)
      Moniterm Viking I High Resolution Monitor (Cost: $1995.95)
      Microway Inc. FlickerFixer (Cost: $600.00)
      NEC Multisync II Color Monitor (Cost: $950.00)

Amiga Resolutions: (Not including Overscan)
                  320*200 with 32 colors out of 4096
                  320*200 with 64 colors out of 4096 (Extra Half-Brite)
                  320*200 with 4096 colors at the same time (HAM Mode)

                  640*200 with 4 to 32 colors
                  640*400 with 2 to 16 colors (interlaced)

With Moniterm:
                  640*400 using Monochrome (noninterlaced)
                 1008*800 using Monochrome Colors

With FlickerFixer:
                  640*400 with 2 to 16 colors (noninterlaced)

Faults with System:  Since the safest peak processor speed for the Amiga
                     has been 16 MHZ, its expandability is limited.  Also,
                     graphics resolution and Tape Drive size should be
                     higher....


System #4
---------

- NeXT System w/670 Meg Hard Drive - Total Cost of System: $10,500.00

      The NeXT computer features a 25 MHZ 68030 w/68882 Math Coprocessor,
Eight Megs of RAM, 4 NuBus Expansion Slots, and a 256 Megabyte Canon
Magneto-Optical Drive with Removable Cartridges.

      To FURTHER enhance this system, I would add NeXT's 670 Megabyte Hard
Disk Drive.  That's it....


So with this system you have:

NeXT Computer w/256 Meg Cartridge Drive (Cost: $6500.00)
670 MB Winchester Hard Drive (Cost: $4000.00)

NeXT Resolution: 1120*832 Pixel Display using Monochrome.

(Keep in mind that these prices are for Universities only, and that actual
 market prices will be much higher)

Faults of System: Canon makes 512 Meg versions of their drive using double
                  sided cartridges.  NeXT uses the single-sided, 256 Meg
                  Drive.  Also, there is NO Color Display, a terrible and
                  glaring omission....


System #5
---------

  - Mega 4 ST w/Turbo ST, ST Expander - Total Cost of System: $10,050.00

      This is a Mega 4 ST with 4 Megs of RAM, 1 Expansion Slot, and both
Color and Monochrome Monitors. Along with this would be a Turbo ST, having
a 16 MHZ 68000, and an ST Expander, which gives the ST Eight expansion
slots and an MMU chip letting the ST support 16 Megs of RAM.

      I would also add Moniterm's 19-Inch Monitor, which allows the ST to
have a 1280*960 display using Monochrome, Supra's FD-10 Disk Drive, which
uses 10 Megabyte 5 1/4 Inch Disks, and a 300 Megabyte Hard Drive made by
ABCO Inc.


So with this system you have:

      Mega 4 ST w/Color & Monochrome Monitors (Cost: $2700.00)
      Turbo ST Accelerator Board (Cost: $200.00)
      ST Expander (Cost: $250.00)
      Supra FD-10 10 Meg Disk Drive (Cost: $895.00)
      ABCO Inc. 300 Megabyte Hard Drive (Cost: 3995.95)
      Moniterm Viking II High Resolution Monitor (Cost: 1995.95)
                                   

Atari ST Resolution: 320*200 with 16 Colors out of 512
                     640*200 with 4  Colors out of 512
                     640*400 using Monochrome
With Moniterm:
                    1280*960 using Monochrome

Faults of System: Not enough memory, graphics resolution should be higher,
                  there is NO ability to expand its capabilities, as there
                  are few expansion cards available, and it doesn't support
                  the 68881, 68020, or 68030 chips that could make it
                  faster....


System #6
---------

 - Abaq Transputer w/40 Meg Hard Disk - Total Cost of System: $22,000.00


      This is an Abaq Transputer with a 20 MHZ T800 Chip (Math Coprocessor
built in) with a speed of 10 VAX MIPS, 4 Megs of RAM, a 40 Megabyte Hard
Disk, and 4 Expansion Slots.  To this I have added Three Abaq Expansion
Cards, with 4 T800 Chips and 1 Meg of DRAM on Each Card, and One Memory
Expansion Cards, with 20 Megs of DRAM onboard.


So with this system you have:

      Abaq Transputer w/4 Megs of RAM (Cost: $5000.00)
      3 Abaq "Farm" Expansion Cards (Cost: $6000.00 estimated)
      1 Abaq Memory Expansion Card (Cost: $8000.00 estimated)
      NEC Multisync XL Monitor (Cost: $3200.00)

Abaq Resolutions:  512*480 with 16 Million Colors at the same time
                   640*480 w/256 Colors out of 16 Million (Double Buffered
                   screens for high speed animation)
                  1024*768 with 256 Colors out of 16 Million
                  1280*960 with 16  Colors out of 16 Million


(Keep in mind that as the prices for the expansion cards have not been
announced, the prices stated above are estimated, and the actual cost of
the Abaq cards may vary greatly.  The capabilities of the cards, though,
are completely accurate.)

Faults of System:  Hard disk storage is greatly lacking, but this can be
                   attributed to its being a new system....


     Notice I did not mention products that are not shipping shortly, like
the 68030 TT, or products which have not been fully announced, like
Commodore's new A2000 Graphics Card.

      In Part I of this series, I have given a list of the best systems to
be found currently in the market, and shown their individual features.  In
Part II these Dream Systems will be compared to each other, in order to
determine the "best" one.

      But based on this article alone, you could safely say that the
Macintosh IIx System has changed drastically, being VERY much improved, and
looking good compared even to the NeXT System.  As 33 MHZ machines have not
yet been introduced, I used a faster 25 MHZ clone for the IBM system, which
is not only more powerful than before, but is the best price/performance
System in this group.  The Amiga System, just as before, comes out
surprisingly strong, but does not meet the "Power without the Price" test
for this list.  But although the Mega ST System is the least expensive, it
is also miserably underpowered, as the NeXT System provides MUCH greater
performance for the same price.  The Abaq Transputer System, a new entry,
has turned out to be extremely powerful....


But ponder, if you will, these two questions:

1) What is it that truly makes a Dream System?

2) Should the computer industry change as quickly as it does?


                           ------=====****=====------


CPU REPORT CONFIDENTIAL
=======================


San Mateo, CA      Electronic Arts has recently introduced DeluxePaint III,
-------------      a new version of DeluxePaint which supports direct
                   overscan and Extra_Half-Brite graphics, has an improved
                   airbrush feature, and has improved support for Amiga
                   fonts.  Cost: $149.95....

St. Louis, MO      Soft-Logik Publishing Corp. is reportedly porting its
-------------      PageStream DTP Program to the Macintosh.  This version
                   will probably be out in June 1989....

Austin, TX         Robert Noyce has recently become Chief Executive Officer
----------         of Sematech, a new research company formed by a
                   consortium of semiconductor makers with the purposes of
                   both advancing chip technology, and matching the finest
                   manufacturing facilities in Japan within two years.

                   Sematech will be funded both by these companies, and by
                   the government, which is giving a 100 million dollar
                   grant to the company....


Errata:  In Issue 10 of CPU Report, I mentioned that Sony was the maker of
=======  the NeXT 256 Meg Drives.  Canon is the actual manufacturer of
         this technology.  Also, in Issue 11 of CPU Report, the word
         Superconductivity was accidentally misspelled, so it was two
         words.  It is NOT spelled Super Conductivity, but is one word,
         Superconductivity....





-------------------------------------------------------------------------



> Thanks - STR InfoFile
  =====================


                                              THE TIME HAS COME
                                              =================


      Hopefully, the day will come when 'grown men' can behave as such. 
The sad non-sense we saw this past weekend was absolutely outrageous.  It
gave us all cause to see if the moon was full.  We at STReport have no axe
to grind with anybody, our main purpose is to present to the reader the 
facts as we collect them.  We, as of this past weekend, have now been 
accused of everything possible except maybe causing the LA Smog!

      We received a phone call from an individual, whose intentions are,
without doubt, questionable at best, saying he wanted to 'help', this 
caller then proceeded to warn us about criticizing products etc..  Sad to
say, there are those who still believe; "the consumer is a 'mark' waiting
to be had!"  He then proceeded to treat us to more accusations than were 
posted online this past weekend, they ranged from personal attacks to a 
severe criticism of the review Galaxy Information Service by Mr. Richard 
Covert, "Why did you publish that stuff?, Now, nobody will call there!"..
he said.   Well, again we must say this; we at STReport are interested in 
informing our readers and not advertising a commercial enterprise.  Rest 
assured, if an enterprise deserves credit and encouragement, it will be 
so noted.  The opposite is also quite true, if the potential for disaster 
is there we will make it known.  STReport is not a "for hire" publication,
therefore, we will not become a platform for any commercial enterprise.  
We will, however, continue to recommend quality products or ideas.

      We at STReport have some of the nicest folks in computing helping to
put together quality articles just for you...

  To list only a few..
 
  M. Arthur     Student       VA    ~    T. Rinaldi     US Navy        FL
  R. Covert     Engineer      AZ    ~    R. Bennett     Electrician    FL
  N. Bradley    US Navy       FL    ~    M. Goddard     Draftsman      FL
  D. Delegal    Programmer    FL    ~    W. Baugh       Biologist      FL
  T. Martz      US Navy       FL    ~    L. Pulley      Businessman    AZ
  G. Anderson   US Air Force  SD    ~    R. Allbritton  Student        DC
  T. Hendricks  Student       TX    ~    B. Sherman     Businessman    UK
  R. Rosendale  US Navy Ret.  FL    ~    R. Stevens     Engineer       FL
  R. Brunk      Engineer      FL    ~    E. Westhusing  US Navy        FL

     This is just a partial list of great Atari supporters who have had
              article(s) appear in STReport Online Magazine.

....to all these fine folks,  I say...thank you.





-------------------------------------------------------------------------



> Uniterm STR Review
  ==================



                              UNITERM VERSION 2.0e
                              ====================


         VT-1xx or VT-2xx Terminal Emulation to a VAX or MicroVAX
                     Via Your Atari ST Using UniTerm 2.0e


By Darin L. Delegal


        One  of  the  less  talked  about, but more useful features of the
   Atari ST computer is it's  ability  to  emulate  a  standard  VT-100 or
   VT-220   terminal   when   used   with   Simon   Poole's  UniTerm  2.0d
   telecommunications package.  This article will  first present  a review
   of this fine Public Domain software package, and then detail the proper
   setups to allow smooth emulation between the Atari ST and a DEC  VAX or
   MicroVAX computer running the VMS operating system.

        To  begin  with,  let  me  say  that  UniTerm is one of the finest
   terminal emulators  that I  have used.   Simon  Poole has  done a great
   service  to  the  Atari  community  by  releasing this program into the
   public domain, and deserves a huge  amount of  praise for  his efforts.
   UniTerm  2.0e  is  the  latest in  a long line of  versions.  My  first
   experience  with UniTerm  was  version 1.6,  and the  program  has been
   getting  better  and  more  powerful  with each new release.

        There  may be a later version of  UniTerm available  beyond 2.0e ,
   but Simon  Poole is  located in Switzerland, and public domain software
   takes a long time to filter down to us here in the United States.  I am
   currently trying  to track him down via Bitnet and Internet.  Hopefully
   I will have more up to date information soon.  If anyone  would like to
   write to  Simon, his address is as follows: Simon Poole, Bahnhofstr. 51
   b, CH-5430 Wettingen, Switzerland.  Please let me know if  you are able
   to make  contact with  him or find a later revision of UniTerm than the
   one described here.

        The program is very well behaved, and contains  enough flexibility
   in setups  to be  used with  almost any system that requires a standard
   DEC VT terminal.   UniTerm will  emulate the  following terminal types:
   VT-52,  VT-100,  VT-102,  VT-220,  and  the Tektronix 4010.  Most of my
   experience has been with  the VT-102  and VT-220  modes, and  I can say
   that with very few exceptions, the emulation has been nearly flawless.

        The emulation  of the  VT series  of terminals is complete down to
   the cursor addressing, VT series line drawing characters, 80/132 column
   screen  displays,  programmable  keypad  (application or numeric mode),
   double high and double wide characters, and character attributes (bold,
   reverse, underlined,  blinking).   Along with the keypad function keys,
   UniTerm gives you the ability to define the Atari ST's function keys to
   anything you  like, which  can include  the standard  codes sent by the
   VT-220 function keys.

        A couple of caveats that must be discussed  here are  the handling
   of  double  wide  characters  and  the  132 column screen mode.  First,
   double wide characters will be spaced  filled on  a color  monitor, but
   will display  properly on a monochrome.  This means that the letter "A"
   displayed in double wide mode on a color  monitor will  look like " A".
   However, double  high-double wide  characters display  properly on both
   monitors.  Second, the Atari ST  screen is  only capable  of displaying
   127  characters  in  the  compressed  screen mode.  This only becomes a
   problem on systems that  use  132  column  screens  and  display useful
   information in  the last 5 characters of each row.  This problem is not
   a function of the program, but inherent in the Atari  ST character set,
   and occurs on both monitors.

        In addition to the strong emulation capabilities, UniTerm offers a
   wide range of file transfer options.   One  of my  favorite features of
   this package  is a  full Kermit server control.  This allows you to put
   the remote mainframe into server mode, and handle all file transfer via
   GEM on  the ST!   You  never need to execute any commands on the remote
   system,  Kermit  will  handle   them   for   you,   including  filename
   translation.   The Kermit  package will  be discussed  later on in this
   article.  XModem, YModem, and ASCII file transfers are also supported.

        A few of the  other  neat  features  that  have  been  included in
   UniTerm are:  Popup Windows  (command boxes  that appear  in the online
   mode wherever  your mouse  cursor is!),  a 48  line per  screen mode in
   monochrome, a  full macro language, an autodialer, the ability to print
   just the text on the screen without doing a slow graphic dump, 60 pages
   (!) of  in depth  documentation, and fully configurable system and text
   buffers.  All in all, this is a  very complete  package, and  should be
   considered a  part of  anyone's library.   This  package is  a must for
   anyone wishing to do serious terminal emulation with the Atari ST.

        Now that you know a little  more about  the UniTerm  package, I'll
   give you the proper setups for using your ST as a terminal to a DEC VAX
   or MicroVAX system.  Setting up  your terminal  is a  two step process;
   First, you must set up UniTerm so that you can get logged into your VAX
   host, and second, you  must then  set up  the VAX  host using  the "SET
   TERMINAL" command.

        There are  three GEM  menus that you must configure to get UniTerm
   up and running: the RS232 Setup, Terminal Setup #1, and  Terminal Setup
   #2.   (I won't go into setting up the system buffers as you should have
   already configured these according  to the  documentation supplied with
   the program.)   The RS232 Setup menu is accessed through the "Settings"
   drop down menu.  In here you will configure the serial port  on your ST
   to communicate  properly with  your modem.  First, select the baud rate
   required by your modem and the modem that you will  be dialing  into on
   the host  system.  Next, set Flow to "None", Parity to "None", Databits
   to "8", Stopbits to "1" and Mode to "Full".  Once you have these values
   set, select "OK" to save them.

        Next,  access  the  Terminal  Setup #1 through the "Settings" drop
   down menu.  This screen  will  allow  you  to  configure  what  type of
   terminal you  will be  emulating among  other things.   I've found that
   setting the  Terminal to  VT-102 works  best in  a VAX/VMS environment.
   The Keypad  selection should be set to "Numeric" to start out, but will
   be controlled by the host system during a  session.   Set Cursormode to
   "ANSI  Reset",  and  Use  to  "8  bits".  I recommend setting Delete to
   "Backspace" so that the  backspace  key  will  send  the  proper delete
   character to  the VAX  host.   Newline Mode  should be set to "CR->CR",
   Wrap should be "None",  and  Status  should  be  "Indicator".   Cursor,
   Background, and  Scroll should be set to whatever suits you best.  Note
   that setting Scroll to "Smooth" will significantly slow down the screen
   display during  scrolling.   Select "OK"  to save your changes and exit
   this dialog box.

        Third, call up the Terminal Setup  #2 through  the "Settings" drop
   down menu.  From here you will be able to set up your printer to act as
   an auxiliary printer to the  host  system.    You  can  also  enable or
   disable  the  Single  Line  Editor  (SLE),  a line history buffer which
   records your last 20 command lines.  You may also select which National
   Replacement Character  (NRC) set  you wish to use.  I recommend setting
   this to "ASCII" for accessing a DEC host.  Once  again, select  "OK" to
   save your changes and exit the dialog.

        If you are going to be using either Kermit or X/YModem to transfer
   files to and from your host,  you  also  need  to  configure  your file
   transfer protocols  properly.   Most likely you will be using Kermit to
   communicate with a DEC  VAX or  MicroVAX host,  so I  will discuss this
   protocol here.   In order to set it up properly, you must select Kermit
   from the "Transfer" drop down menu.   Next,  select File  Transfer from
   the "Settings" menu, this will take you to the Kermit Setup dialog box.

        The  following  values  have  been  tested  with  the VAX/MicroVAX
   Kermit-32 protocol, but may  need  to  be  modified  for  your specific
   system.   Set: Timeout  after to "10" Sec, Maximum number of retries to
   "10", Number of padding characters to "0", Packet  Size to  "94", Quote
   character to "#", 8 bit quote character to "&", Repeat prefix character
   to  "~",  leave  the  padding  character  blank,  Start  of  packet  to
   "Control-A",  IBM  mode  to  "Off",  Incomplete files to "Discard", and
   Error check type to "Chk 1".   As  I stated  before, these  values work
   perfectly for me, but you may have to modify them to get Kermit to work
   with your host system.

        Once you have all of the  settings  configured  the  way  you want
   them, select  Save Setup  from the  "File" drop down menu.  If you name
   the setup file "UNITERM.SET" and place  it in  the same  directory that
   you are running UniTerm from, it will be loaded automatically each time
   you boot up the  program.    Now  that  you  have  the  program  set up
   properly, you  must dial  into your  host system  and use  the VMS "SET
   TERMINAL" command to configure the host for your terminal type.  Set up
   the autodialer as instructed in the manual and then log into your host.

        When VMS  gives you  its command line prompt (usually a "$"), type
   in the following command: "SET TERMINAL  /PERMANENT /INQUIRE /WIDTH=127
   /PAGE=24".   After typing in this command and hitting return, there may
   be a slight pause as the host system  does an  inquiry to  UniTerm, and
   sets its  parameters accordingly.  Soon, you will see your screen clear
   and  switch  into  compressed  (127  column)  mode.    If  you  prefer,
   substitute "80"  as the  value in the "/WIDTH=" parameter.  You can use
   the "SET TERMINAL /WIDTH=" command to toggle the display mode  back and
   forth.

        At this  point, you  can do a "SHOW TERMINAL" to see your terminal
   setup.  The "Device_Type:" field should show the  proper terminal type,
   and  the  "Width:"  and  "Page:"  fields should show the correct screen
   dimensions.   You  should  also  see  that  "Line_Editing", "ANSI_CRT",
   "Advanced_Video", "Edit_Mode",  "DEC_CRT" and in the case of the VT-220
   mode, "DEC_CRT2"  are set  under the  "Terminal Characteristics:" area.
   The "Terminal  Characteristics:" should  also display "Printer_Port" or
   "No Printer_Port" depending  on  how  you  set  the  printer  option in
   Terminal Setup #2.

        If all of the options are set in UniTerm and on the host system as
   I have explained above, you should now be able to use your  Atari ST as
   a terminal  to your  DEC VAX  or MicroVAX host system.  This will be of
   particular interest to those of you who have personal or class accounts
   on the  VAX network at the University.  If you have any more questions,
   or would like to get a hold of the latest version of UniTerm, see me at
   the upcoming user's group meeting.  Hope to see you all there!





--------------------------------------------------------------------------



> ULTRASYNC STR Review
  ====================




                              PRINCETON ULTRASYNC
                              ===================


by R.F. Mariano


      Princeton Graphics Systems' UltraSync is truly a sight to behold. 
It combines unmatched compatibility with STATE-of-the-ART Technology to
provide the widest available autosynchronous horizontal/vertical scan
frequency range.  Thus making the fine features of this magnificent monitor
available to a wide range of computers including IBM PC/XT/AT, PS/2, Apple
MacIntosh II and the Atari ST/Mega computers.

      As a result of the latest technological enhancements, the Princeton
Ultrasync offers an exceptionally fine dot pitch (.28mm) and superior
display resolution (800x600) which produces an image of unequaled clarity,
in bright vivid colors.  The Princeton Ultrasync is economically designed
with a black matrix tube, no-glare etched screen, built in tilt and swivel
base and a color switch.

      The DB 25 Connector on the rear of the Monitor provides everything
needed to bring the finest in performance to your computer system.

            1 - GROUND TTL                  2 - RED 2 OR GND TTL
                RED ANALOG                      GRN ANALOG
            3 - RED TTL                     4 - GRN TTL
                BLUE ANALOG                     COMP-HORIZ-SYNC
            5 - BLUE TTL                    6 - GRN 2 OR INTENSITY TTL
                PCG MODE ANALOG                 GND ANALOG
            7 - BLUE 2 TTL                  8 - HORIZ-SYNC TTL
                GND ANALOG                      GND ANALOG
            9 - VERT-SYNC                  10 - N/C

           11 - RED ANALOG                 12 - GRN ANALOG

           13 - BLUE ANALOG                14 - N/C

           15 - N/C                        16 - GND

           17 - GND                        18 - GND

           19 - N/C                        20 - GND

           21 - GND                        22 - N/C

           23 - HORIZ-SYNC                 24 - VERT-SYNC

                               25 - N/C

The following is a partial list of the specifications of this monitor

COLORS DISPLAYED.................Infinite colors (Analog RGB .6v p-p pos.)
                                 8, 16, 64 colors in TTL mode.
SYNC SIGNALS.....................TTL Pos. or Neg., Composite or separate,
                                 sync on green.
SWEEP FREQUENCY..................Autosync Vertical Scan 45-120 Hz. 
                                 Autosync Horizontal scan 15 Khz-35Khz.
ACTIVE DISPLAY AREA..............215mm(W) x 160mm(H)

RESOLUTION.......................800 x 600

MISCONVERGENCE
    CENTER.......................Within .3 mm
    CIRCUMFERENCE................Within .6 mm

PICTURE TUBE.....................12" diagonal, 90 degree deflection .28mm
                                 dot pitch, black matrix tube, non-glare
                                 etched screen.
EXTERNAL USER CONTROLS...........Power, brightness, contrast, vertical
                                 sizing, vertical centering, horizontal
                                 sizing, horizontal centering, over/under
                                 scan, text switch, color button, TTL - 
                                 Analog button

INPUT CONNECTOR..................25 pin D Connector

AMBIENT OPERATING TEMPERATURE....0-40 Degrees Celsius

POWER SUPPLY.....................90-132 VAC, 49-61 HZ 
                                 180-264VAC (available)
POWER CONSUMPTION................85W

      Since installing this monitor in the system, we have been making
comparisons of performance between the SC1224 - SM124 monitors and this
UltraSync....the Medium and low REZ is hands high better that what the
SC1224 can offer, it is sharper, more clear and the colors are magnificent
and truly vivid.  The monochrome is easily equal to the SM124.  One of the
nice points in the monochrome mode is the ability to adjust the background
color between a pleasant blue, amber or green.  The UltraSync is a real 
pleasure to own and operate.  Switching between the two resolution  modes,
Mono/Color, is a little bit more involved, where it used to be just 
punching the button on the Monitor Master, it is now necessary to hit the 
button on the Monitor Master and adjust the monitor for perfection.  ..AND
you do GET perfection!

FOR MORE INFO:
-------------
                       PRINCETON GRAPHICS SYSTEMS
                        601 EWING STREET, BLDG A
                         PRINCETON, N.J. 08540





-------------------------------------------------------------------------



> FAIR?? STR Focus
  ================


                              USERGROUPS - ENDANGERED SPECIES?
                              ================================


      The usergroup, be it dedicated to motorcycles, bass fishing boats,
or computers is nothing unique to Atari or any other manufacturer of
popular consumer items.  Enthusiastic supporters of popular products are
found in almost every marketplace.  (Edsel, Timex, Packard, C.B., etc.).
However, usergroups, as we know them, may very well be an endangered 
species.  When we see all sorts of enterprising young men coming down the
path, hawking their wares of wonderment and promising to take all the
drudgery out of putting on a jamboree, 'fest, or whatever 'name' is used.
Remember the fabulous "Jamborees" for CB Radio?  What happened to them
when the "glitz and schmaltz" was introduced?

     Most Usergroups are formed by folks who have a common bond; the 
product they enjoy using and enthusiastically support.  Unfortunately, 
most folks DO NOT realize that the main reason the Usergroups sponsor 
these fests is for the opportunity to earn the meager profits that will 
enable the Usergroup to operate comfortably for another year.  The monies 
they realize from a show of any type enables that group to survive, and 
the 'fest provides viable avenues of activity and support for not only 
it's members, but the community in which it is founded.  The loss of this 
source of revenue would force usergroups to seek other means of raising 
support funds.  In addition, the majority of usergroups are chartered as 
non-profit organizations, and in the by-laws or preamble they usually have 
a pledge of intent to support a lawfully recognized charity through the 
donation of any and all monies in excess of normal operating expenses.  Of 
course, with the advent of the commercialization of the usergroup sponsored 
show, the support of these designated beneficiaries (the selected charity) 
is also 'endangered'.

       Now comes an enterprising promoter who says; "I'll do it all for 
you, I know this guy and that guy, I'll take all the headaches out of 
putting on the show.  Let me do it for you.!"  One good question at this 
point would be WHY are you doing this wonderful and gracious deed for our
usergroup, and how much will it cost our group?

      Usually, the answer is the Usergroup's cost is, "NOT a Dime!"  
However, is this the entire picture?  Actually, what is this 'service' 
costing the usergroup?  As we see it, possibly it's very existence.  
Consider all the effects of bringing in a Promoter to handle a group's show
or any other facet of the group's activity.  Initially it all seems
marvelous, but what effect will it have on neighboring communities and the
potential for the users there ever setting up a usergroup?  Or, if just 
one group is plunged into bankruptcy because of a problem, the fallout 
will effect every usergroup.  All usergroups should strongly consider every
aspect of the association and the potential long range effects prior to
entering into such an agreement.

      In every major city, all promoters of any type must be licensed by
city and state authorities.  Make sure the promoter wanting to do your
group's show has all the proper credentials and licenses.  Also, make
absolutely sure that all the responsibilities, (insurance, bonds, etc..),
for the show, are fully provided for by the promoter(s).  After all, they
make all the rules, and they get all the profits.

      How can they do this?  Easy.  They sell the ads, the advance ticket
sales, the advertisements in the show's tear bill, the souvenirs, the 
booth spaces, etc.  In fact, just about everything must now go through the
hands of the promoter.  Some of the usergroups do notice that the ticket 
prices are much higher than the last show, and that, in fact, everything 
is much more expensive.  Profit motivation dictates higher pricing in all 
directions.  It's certain the members of the usergroup will be paying the 
higher prices to "attend their show".

      Try this on for size.. most major corporations will place "seed"
money into any provocative promotion that shows promise of being beneficial
to product recognition and, ultimately, sales..that's just good business 
and quite wise to do so.  Now Mr. Promoter comes before this corporation 
and says, "I have seven shows planned at these strategic locations around 
the country"!  Naturally, the corporate executive is impressed, and 
verifies that yes, the booths are booked and all seems in order.  Now, 
since the average amount of seed money ranges from 5 to 7 thousand dollars
per show, the promoter ultimately has an opportunity to invest 35 to 49 
thousand dollars of someone else's money and earn the profits therefrom. 
Not bad, but...where does it leave the usergroups, the intended benefactors
of these shows?

    A little 'birdie' heard one such promoter exclaim: "By 1990 I hope to 
do ALL the Usergroup Shows"! ..hmmm..  Will the Usergroups be able to
continue to rely on these shows for financial support?

      Let's see, 80 booths at $750.00 per booth, plus 30,000 in attendance
EST. @ $5.00 is $210,000.00.  And these figures do not include ancillary 
income from all of the other activities at the show (souvenirs, vending,
etc.).  Of course, there are expenses to be met and obligations to be paid
from this income, expenses and obligations that would most certainly exceed
the financial means of the average usergroup.  It is this lack of financial
means that has prevented user groups from sponsoring shows of this 
magnitude in the past.  Now the shows are being taken out of the hands of 
the usergroups, and we have yet to see any real evidence as to what amount
of the proceeds (indeed, if any) are guaranteed to the usergroup.

      How about a usergroup actually PAYING (discounted) for a booth!
It is even rumored that some of the usergroups get NONE of the profits and
only a FREE Booth..  Seems they are told that they get to keep only what
they make in their own booth.  But to be considered a sponsor or be part
of the "echelon" of the show, they must provide free manpower.  Is the 
Usergroup a winner here?

      Let's See now, a Usergroup can..

             A) provide the manpower (voluntary)..
             B) provide support and enthusiasm..
             C) relinquish any profits..
             D) pay for a booth (possibly)
             E) receive plenty of "attaboys"
             F) be dependent on the promoter's "Goodwill"
             G) acquire new members

              ***   P.T. Barnum can learn something here.  ***


The real questions here are:

WHAT IS THE REAL GOOD TO THE USERGROUP AS A GROUP?  

WHAT DIRECT BENEFIT IS THERE FOR EACH MEMBER OF THE USERGROUP?

OR, IS THE CENTRAL PURPOSE OF THE ATARIFESTS TO GENERATE PROFITS RATHER 
THAN SUPPORT USER GROUPS AND PROMOTE ATARI AS MANUFACTURER OF QUALITY 
COMPUTER EQUIPMENT?

You can be sure that the majority of Usergroups will never establish a
building fund or be able to pursue any other long range goals.

The answers to these questions will come in time, ..they always do.  

              Hopefully, the usergroups  ..will have the time.....


                                CAVEAT EMPTOR!
                                --------------


Nota Bene:
----------
      The above article is neither an accusation of any wrong doing nor is
it intended to be.  The main thrust of the above article is to cause the
leaderships of Usergroups nationwide to seriously think about what is being
proposed and what is actually occurring.  In the past few weeks, we have 
seen Usergroup pitted against Usergroup, alleged 'spokespersons' taking 
sides and publicizing some very sad and nasty remarks.  Even if a promoter
has the best intentions possible, if some control and respect is not shown
to all usergroups and concerned parties in a professional, business-like 
manner, there can be none in return.  In the interests of all parties 
concerned, the entire situation warrants a more thorough examination. 





-------------------------------------------------------------------------



> Psss't? STR FYI
  ===============



                                       The Grapevine
                                       =============


by Todd Hendreks


  Hi there. ....This is my first attempt at writing a small column for ST
REPORT.  It won't be weekly, but it'll be sent up whenever I get new info
from down here in HouSTon.  First I'll tell about some new ST products and
then some rumors that I gathered from people and magazines.


New software/hardware for the ST:


- HYPERFONT - 

From Michtron, it enables you to edit and create fonts.  The font objects
are created by objects and not pixels.  So whatever font is created, it
can be easily resized and modified.  Also, a scanned image can be used to
create a font.  The fonts are saved in GDOS format so they can be used in
such programs such as Word Up, Timeworks Publisher, Easy Draw etc.
Thanks to Terry Thorn who gave me the info about this program. 
List price is $49.95.


- GENlock - 

JRI GENlock has arrived!  It only works on a Mega, but I've heard a 
version for the 1040's and 520's will be done. It connects to the Mega bus
if I remember correctly. The output is fantastic.  We had a VCR connected
and we played the  tape and an animation on the SC1224. Yes, the color 
moniter became a TV! And a pretty sharp TV at that.  It's all hardware and
there's a small controller box that lets you fade in/out the background &
Foreground.  And there were many other functions, too numerous to list 
here.  When we aborted the animation, the ST went back to the desktop, but
the VCR tape was still playing!  Pretty neat moving the mouse pointer and 
seeing a videotape on the SC1224.  Talk about the ultimate Neodesk!  This 
is a high quality GENlock.  If you have been wanting to use a GENlock on 
your ST, then by all means get this one!  
List price is $650. Not bad considering that some Amiga Genlocks can be 
over one thousand dollars.                                  


- Ultrascript - 

It's here!  Now you can buy the Atari laser that comes with Ultrascript
(The Postscript clone) for around $1500.  It comes with about 35 or so
Postscript FONTS and some Ultrascript fonts, I believe.  Right now, you 
can only get Ultrascript if you buy the laser package. Apparently, that's
what the company IMAGEN wants.  Atari, I hear, is trying to change that
contract so they can sell Ultrascript separately.  I hope IMAGEN agrees.
I think you can get Ultrascript from the company itself though. Give them
a call to find out.   
List price for it is around $230-250.  You might need a Mega 4


- Zany Golf - 

This a fantastic golf game! Actually, it's a sort of Putt-Putt golf game.
There are nine holes and each one is graphically outstanding. Each course
has a unique name according to the way the course is like.  One is called 
Hamburger Hill.  There is a hamburger on top of the hole and you have to 
make the burger bounce by clicking the left mouse button.  Another one, 
the ninth hole, has lasers and other oddities.  So far, everyone who plays
this has not passed the ninth hole.  You control the golf ball with the 
mouse.  You hold the right button and pull the mouse back to control the 
power of the ball and you move the mouse left to right to control where 
the ball will go. You can also scan through out the course before you 
shoot. I don't have this game, but I will get it! Would you BELIEVE that 
this is little jewel is from....... ELECTRONIC ARTS!  This is what Marble
 Madness should have been. It's what Marble Madness could have been.
Hopefully, EA will come out with more quality products like this.  
List price is $39.95.   ..and worth the money even though the mega has a
few small problems that do not hurt the game play, just the score card. 
Reportedly, a fix is on the way!



- These are "RUMORS":
             ------

There is apparently an Amiga emulator out in Europe that lets you run
certain Amiga software.  Even if the Amiga emulator crashes and has bugs,
it'll still be a true emulation of the Amiga.

IRS audit has found out that Commodore must pay $74 million in back taxes.
That's a lot considering that Commodore's profit was only in the area of
approximately $56 million.

There might be a tag on 68020 processor board. Hopefully, this is true.
Also, there may be a video display that increases the resolution greatly.
The person whom I obtained this info from received these hardware rumors 
from two extremely reliable sources.

         Well, that's it. So, until whenever I get some more info:

                          Same ST time, Same ST channel.                              





-------------------------------------------------------------------------



> Galaxy STR Focus
  ================



                                 GALAXY/STARLINK
                                 ===============


                                    For Real?????

by Richard E. Covert

[ This is a Rebuttal To GTC's response to my original article that
  appeared in ST REPORT #77. Also, this GTC guy didn't even have the common
  courtesy to ARC his comment file to save people time downloading it from
  GEnie!! 

  Another fact is that the GTC/STARLINK uploaded his response to GEnie
  without obtaining prior permission from either myself or ST REPORT.
  My responses will be noted by the square brackets. Richard E. Covert
  [rec]

TO:   All Starlink Users

FROM: GTC/StarLink

[ Who is this from?? At least I used my real name. I don't hide behind
  some company name. 
  rec]

Subj: An example of what not to do in the publishing business.

[ My article had nothing to do with publishing. It was an article about
  hidden charges that GTC doesn't advertise when you ask about Starlink.
  I have no affiliation with ST REPORT. I don't get paid for my articles
  in ST REPORT. I do NOT represent myself as an ST REPORT reporter. I am
  simply an individual who hopes to help others avoid being ripped off
  by unethical vendors!!
  rec]

An article appeared this month in an Atari On-Line magazine of some type
called ST Report (We have been in the electronic publishing business for
three years and never heard of this one.  Does it really exist?)

[ Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus!! ST REPORT has been posted on
  GEnie for at least a year now. Where has this guy been??  And if
  ST REPORT is so unknown why is GTC worried about an article in it??
  Could it be that GTC is in bed with a competing ST online magazine??
  It seems kinda strange that the ST ZMAG article on STARLINK didn't 
  mention any of the hidden charges!!
  And what magazines does this guy publish?? How come we never see them
  here??  Or maybe he is affiliated with ST ZMAG?? If so, why doesn't he
  just admit it??
  rec]

A person signed up on our system recently and identified himself as "ST
REPORT" and tried to hustle us for a free Starlink account so he could
write "a good review about Starlink".  We refused to give him a free
account and this is the result. Our responses are enclosed in << >> below
the appropriate paragraphs.

[ This is an outright LIE!! I would like to pursue this in court as this
  guy (who won't even leave his real name) is accusing me of actions that
  I didn't do!!  I NEVER asked for a free account on Starlink. I never
  threatened to write a bad review of Starlink unless I got a free account!!
  I don't know who this unnamed individual is but he isn't Richard E. Covert
  This article is NOT the result of being refused a FREE Starlink
  account.  I would NEVER accept anything from someone who refuses to
  leave his name when attacking me!!!  This article was written after I
  read an article in ST ZMAG which was simply a screen capture from the
  STARLINK BBS.  I believe that prospective Starlink customers should be
  warned about the hidden charges that GTC refuses to admit to publicly!!
  rec]

             Star Light, Star Bright, No Starlink For Me Tonight!
             =====================================================

               Starlink has what appears to be 'hidden charges'!

                                     Or

         ******  How Starlink Really can Cost $46.50 Per Hour  ******


by Richard Covert


This article will prove that the new Starlink data service offered by
Galaxy Information Network(GIN) is too expensive for the home hobbyist to
use.  GIN fails to tell prospective customers of the REAL, hidden, costs
of their new service. This can only be attributed to ruthless marketing in
an attempt to capture former Telenet PC Pursuit customers..

<< Beware computerists:  call us and we may strangle you with your modem
phone cord >>

[ The comments by GTC should prove my above comments!!!
  rec]

This article starts one evening when I read a message on a bbs describing
a great new data service called STARLINK. Being unhappy with Telenet's
proposed price increase, I naturally called. The number I was given was for
a BBS. I logged in and screen captured a message detailing the costs for
Starlink. Basically, it would be a usage charge of $1.50 per hour to any one
of 91 cities in the continental United States. Sounds great, I says to
myself. Why not call voice and sign up for Starlink.

<< love this guy's grammar >>

[ So, I am no Shakespeare!! The guy from GTC is no Pope either!!!
  rec]

So, I call GIN and ask for more information. The operator there describes
how wonderful Starlink is and says 'Yes, the fee is $1.50 per hour'.  He
also says that 91 cities are STARLINKable at 2400 baud and that 10 cities
can be called at 9600 baud. Now, I don't own a 9600 baud modem, but it 
would definitely pay to get one seeing as how I could transfer files and 
messages four times as fast, and thus save on my connect time (at only 
$1.50 per hour, remember). So, I ask for an enrollment packet and decide 
to pay via the CHECKFREE option. I sure didn't want to give out a credit 
charge number without more information then I had already..

<< who would give this guy a credit card >>

[ Who would give GTC a credit charge number??  I sure wouldn't!!!!
  Besides, what does my credit history have to do with Starlink??  I 
  probably earn more money from my full time job then this guy does from 
  running  GTC anyway!!
  rec]

So, a few days pass and I receive a letter from GIN. Ho boy, am I excited.
The envelope contained three pages, all with a nice letterhead by GIN in
Virginia Beach VA.  As I eagerly read thru the letters I came across the
worm in the apple.. And boy was it a biggie..  It turns out that Starlink
has some serious hidden charges which GIN doesn't tell you over the phone.


******They are as follows:
      ===================

                                    (1)

There is a minimum connect time of FIVE minutes once you connect to a
STARLINK city. This means that if you only want to call one BBS in that
city,  and that BBS is busy, you will be charged FIVE minutes if you
disconnect from that city to try another city. Given as how so many BBSes
are busy so often it would be a frequent occurrence. So, be prepared to
spend at least FIVE minutes in each Starlink city, because you are going
to be billed for it anyway..

<< you are using the network.  This should be free? >>

[ You missed my point. I am simply warning people that there is a minimum
  connect charge that could run up to some big money if you aren't careful!!
  If you read messages about PCP's new charges, you will note that being
  charged to connect to PCP nodes and then getting charged for time spent
  waiting for a BBS to free up is a sore point with many customers.  I
  wanted to warn future Starlink customers about your policy!! And Telenet
  tried to remedy this by not charging you for connect times less then
  a minute.  GTC on the other hand charges you five minutes even if you
  disconnect in less then that!! Call enough cities with BUSY BBSes and you
  could log a lot of five minute charges!!

  On the other hand, since you aren't on for the full five minutes, these
  charges would help with the Data Transfer charges (since you don't have
  any data transfer!!!).

  Furthermore, a big user of PCP are BBSes which exchange messages overnight.
  These messages could run into hundreds of kilobytes. Are these BBSes
  to be penalized for providing a service to their callers?? There are
  ST BBSes which use Crossnet, and IBM BBSes which use FidoNet to exchange
  such messages. I guess GTC/Starlink only wants the small users who are
  willing to pay the large fees that GTC charges without using much of the
  resources!! Starlink sounds more and more like a ripoff to me!!!
  rec]

                                    (2)

The much touted BBS that GIN is really used to notify you of your bills.
It turns out that if you elect to use the CHECKFREE option to have your
monthly charges deducted automatically from a checking account, GIN
notifies you via email on their BBS. This sounds great until you read the
fine print.  GIN will submit the payment to your checking account  FIVE
days after notifying you of the charge.  So, you had better have an extra
couple hundred dollars laying around in your checking account or you could
has some bouncing ball type checks..  Since GIN only gives you FIVE days
notice, you will have to call their BBS almost daily to determine your
bill.  And then you will only have FIVE days to get the cash together to
pay it. Oh, by the way, GIN will be nice enough to charge you $20 if their
payment fails due to non-sufficient funds in your checking account..


<< Richard?  Are you planning on using the service without having the money
in your account to pay your bill? >>

[ My point is that you could run up such large bills, and the bills would
  be so unpredictable, that it could make it very easy to overdraw your
  checking account. And since you only have 5 days to get the cash into
  your checking account, it is even worse. At least GEnie gives you two
  weeks before billing your checking account. I think Starlink should 
  bill two weeks after notification!!
  rec]

                                    (3)

You still have to connect to a local STARLINK modem, and then call thru
it to connect to the STARLINK modem in one of the 91 cities. This is just
as bad as PCP.

<< Really now...... is there another way to do this? >>

[ Well, it would be nice to be able to dial direct, but I guess that is
  impossible with a data network.
  rec]


                                    (4)

You are responsible for ALL local connect charges to the BBS on the remote
end. Say, you call Tampa Florida  and want to connect to a BBS in Largo.
Now Largo is just across the Bay from Tampa so you call your BBS.  But,
Largo is an In-State Long Distance call from Tampa, so GIN is going to
gladly charge you for the call between Tampa and Largo.  In-State Long
Distance calls are more expensive then Out Of State Long Distance calls.
So, be prepared for more dollars leaving your wallet.

<< please.....at least you can call it. Try that with another service >>

[ Yes, that is nice, but Starlink customers had better be prepared for
  big Starlink bills!!! And that is my point!!!
  rec]

                                    (5)

The BBS is billed NOT at the $2.00 an hour described over the phone but
you also have to pay the $1.50 an hour connect charge.  Therefore, using
their BBS costs you $3.50 per hour. And you have to use their BBS to get
your notification of your current bill..


<< The BBS is billed at $2.00 per hour.  The service is $1.50. EXACTLY as
stated over the phone.  RAM failure, Richard? >>

[ Another snide remark by the unnamed individual at GTC. Why don't you
  leave your real name anyway?? Afraid of publicity?? Afraid of getting
  flaming email on GEnie??

  Anyway, how do you connect to the GTC BBS??  If you don't happen to live
  within a local call of it you need to call thru Starlink to connect to 
  the Starlink BBS.  Therefore, you will be billed for the $1.50 per hour
  Starlink connect time plus the $2.00 BBS connect charge, for a total
  of $3.50 per hour.  GEnie looks real good to me at $5.00 per hour
  compared to the lame Starlink BBS!!
  rec]

                                    (6)

There is a one time $50 sign up charge.. Even PCP didn't have the nerve
to charge $50 just to sign up.. This is higher then any other computer
service..

<< The sign up fee has been reduced to $25 per month >>

[ Oh goodie, now we get to pay the sign up fee of $25 each month!! Hey,
  that's what the man says, "$25 per month"!!!
  rec]

                                    (7)

There is a $10 per month maintenance and administration fee. But this
entitles you to TWO free hours on their BBS. Better not use up that two
free hours early because you have to call the BBS to be notified of your
bill...

<< It takes you two hours to read an E-Mail message? >>

[ Yep, if you have to read every day to check for notification of the
  bill.
  rec]

                                    (8)

I saved the worst for last.. Even with all of the above "cute" charges,
Starlink might still be acceptable.  IF it were not for the fact that
GIN charges you a DATA TRANSFER FEE.  You get to transfer 100 kilobytes
per hour for free, and anything after that is charged at 1.5 cents per
kilobyte...  That's right friends, you had better stop chatting after those
first 100 Kbytes because they start costing you from then.  So, you go out
and buy that fancy new 9600 baud, which only set you back $500 because you
bought it from US ROBOTICS under their SYSOP purchase plan, and now you
can transfer THREE megabytes of data per hour.. So, that three megs of
files is going to cost you $45.  (BAD NEWS!)  That makes your total cost
to use Starlink $46.50 per hour plus any charges for local calls on the
remote end..

<< There is NO POSSIBLE way you can exceed 100 kilocharacters per hour
"chatting". NONE!

The Kchar charge is there to prevent the exact same thing from happening on
Starlink that happened on PC Pursuit.  An attack of the "FILE HOGS". The
charge is AVERAGED over a persons MONTHLY useage.  In other words, ten
hours usage earns 1,000 kchars for that 10 hours. No one will exceed 40
kchars per hour unless he is downloading files.  Then, if he uses the
service for ten hours per month he would have to download over a megabyte
of files to exceed the allowed kchars AND DO IT CONTINUOUSLY.  >>

[ First, it is very possible to transfer more then the 100K char per
  hour without being a "FILE HOG". A couple of GEnie files could be
  over 100K alone. I keep screen capture files from GEnie, and a typical
  30 minute call on GEnie will yield a file of over 100K. And that's without
  downloading a single file from GEnie. That is simply text and messages

  Also, the key point is NOT what the unnamed GTC guy says on a service 
  like GEnie but what you SIGN. I have the enrollment   forms from GTC in
  front of me. And you agree to pay 1.5 cents per Kilochar after the first
  100K in any hour. The papers do not mention anything about   a monthly 
  average. So, by signing the enrollment form, you are signing a legally 
  binding contract to pay 1.5 cents per kilochar. I don't trust someone 
  who won't even leave his real name in an attack on me!!!
  rec]

 So, to summarize, Starlink can really cost you over $46.50 per hour if
you call at 9600 baud. You only get five days notification before your
checking account is billed. You are billed for any charges incurred in
completing your call on the remote end.  You get to pay a fifty dollar 
sign up fee, and you are billed $10 per month maintenance. All calls to a 
Starlink city are billed a minimum of five minutes. So, I say BUNK to 
Starlink.. If you want to call and ask GIN to answer these questions here
is a TOLL FREE number that GIN can be reached at:

                                800-321-0156.....

         So, Please check out Starlink carefully before you sign..

<< YES!  Please do call us!  At least you'll get the facts in the matter
and not a biased opinion from someone who was looking for a free lunch! >>

[ Once again this unnamed individual from GTC accuses me of something that
  I didn't do!! I repeat, I NEVER asked for a free Starlink account.
  After reading this guy's attack on me, I wouldn't take a free Starlink
  account if it was offered!  I wouldn't trust this guy.  I would be afraid
  that at any time they would charge me for usage if I didn't kowtow to.
  also, you won't get the hidden charges by calling GTC. I didn't know about
  them until after I got the enrollment forms from GTC.  And once more I
  stress, you are signing a legal contract with GTC giving them access to
  whatever attempt of money that GTC determines you owe them. Since there
  is no upper limit specified in the contract, GTC could charge you almost
  any amount. At least with a credit charge you have some protection, but by
  using the CHECKFREE payment option you are totally without recourse!!

  My advice is to stay clear of GTC and Starlink. Their hidden charges raise
  the total, effective, rate of Starlink to a prohibitive level. And since
  the fees are so unpredictable, you leave yourself open to huge bills.
  PCP is looking better all of the time!!!!

  My advice is to buy a 9600 baud modem and use AT&T's Reach Out America
  to call long distance BBSes.  ROA is a flat $7.20 per hour nights and
  weekends, and you aren't billed for busy bbses!!  It won't take many 
  months   to pay for the 9600 baud modem with the savings from Starlink!!
  rec]


                          -------======****======-------


Editor's Note:
-------------

      It was I who called Galaxy/Starlink in our ongoing research of this
"User Oriented" - "Let US save you money" offering.  We did, in fact, ask
for a courtesy account and...if we agreed to not call through Starlink, or,
to pay just the Starlink charges, we would find a "credit posted" every 
month.  In finding that they did indeed indeed offer a courtesy arrangement
in return for all issues of STReport to posted on the Galaxy BBS.

      As a point of information the GENT who answered the telephone, 
T. Scott, knew exactly who we were.  He immediately complained about the 
last time we sent files to him;  "His IBM could not read them"....We 
informed of the fact that they would not be sent in Atari 8 bit form as 
they were a little over a year ago from NJ...we also informed him of the 
present independent situation of STReport.  He then said he had spoken to 
"the other guy" in about a year and hoped the newsletter improved.  
Therefore, when it is said they "knew NOT" , who STReport is/was, it 
appears to be somewhat in error.   Sure looks like another "sweetheart" 
deal.

      If I didn't know better, the style of the answers look mighty 
familiar.  Besides, we have a complete capture of the log-on procedure, 
showing where we used our real name, address and telephone number.  Also,
in my possession in the agreement form made out to myself and STReport
JOINTLY.  ((Postmarked March 7, 1989 - Virginia Beach))  I must also agree 
with Richard Covert, these folks leave a great deal to be desired.

                     JUST SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT!

                                                              RFM





-------------------------------------------------------------------------



> CPU-NEWSWIRE STR Focus
  ======================



                             STReport Online Magazine
                             ========================

                                Proudly  Presents 

                                 CPU - NEWSWIRE!

         Our first issue will be in the mail for the beginning of April
         1989.  CPU - NEWSWIRE will  encompass the  true embodiment  of
         what  the Atari userbase is concerned with and, of course, all
         the latest news presented in an in depth, comprehensive manner
         thus,  delivering to  the reader all the facts about important
         issues concerning the computing world.


 :SPECIAL OFFER:
 ---------------

         For a limited time only, STReport will, for those who subscribe
         before  April 15, 1989,  offer  a special 20% discount  off the
         regular  subscription rate.   We feel once you  have  seen  and
         enjoyed reading our fine  bi - weekly  newsletter, you  will be
         proud  of having made a wise and gratifying choice.

 :USERGROUPS:
 ------------

         STReport recognizes that the Usergroup is the heart and soul of
         of the popularity of  Atari ST Computers  in the USA today.  As
         such,  we extend to usergroups the  opportunity to  participate
         in a fine program designed to assist the usergroup and the user
         at the same time.   A special program has been put in place for
         Usergroups, please call our Usergroup Co-ordinator 904-783-3319
         to get  the  details on how  your group, no matter how large or
         small, can take advantage of the program.

 :Commercial Enterprises:
 ------------------------

          We chose  not to harass  the various  Commercial Entities in
          the  Atari Userbase  who, either  directly or indirectly, are
          involved in the production, development, distribution or sale
          of all the fine products available for the Atari ST computer.

          Instead, we offer the  Business segment of the Atari Userbase
          the  very first full line  directory aimed at  satisfying the
          the immediate  needs of users when they  seek a certain  item
          or company.  This directory will be a comprehensive, accurate
          volume  published quarterly for the convenience of the Users.



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                                         STReport's CPU - NewsWire
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                   STReport ..The Original Online ST Magazine



- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 







> ST REPORT CONFIDENTIAL
  ======================



- New York City, N.Y.          ******  ATARI DUMPS FEDERATED!!  ******
  -------------------

      Amidst the rumor and conjecture, STReport has learned that, as of
Wednesday of this past week, Atari began closing the Federated Stores, we
originally reported to you over 8 weeks ago that Atari's intentions were to
separate itself from the Federated situation as soon as possible.  The
Thursday edition of the New York Times carried the entire story in detail. 
Also mentioned is the fact that a sale is NOT out of the question and that
the lawsuit will have no bearing on the sale.   "The Atari Corporation 
said today that it planned to dispose of the Federated Group Inc., a 
consumer electronics retailer it purchased in 1987.  As a result, the 
company said it had established  reserves and taken a write-off of more 
than $100 million, resulting in large losses for the fourth quarter of 
1988 and the year."   "In an announcement made late today, Atari said it 
had begun treating Federated as a discontinued operation and was studying
the sale, spin off or leveraged buyout of the unit."  Counting only its 
continuing operations, Atari said its net income was $9.3 million, or 16 
cents a share, down 56.1% from the $21.2 million, or 36 cents a share, 
recorded in the 1987 period."  "Atari said the company's balance sheet 
would remain sound after the write-offs and reserves.  It expects an 
'improving environment in 1989."  

   Hopefully, this will clear up a hardcopy magazine's confusion or,
            mis-information by having been given "bad info"....



- Sunnyvale, CA.       **** TOS 1.4 ALL SET FOR CHIP MANUFACTURER ****
  --------------

      As long as Murphy's Law doesn't come in to play, this _release_
version of TOS 1.4 is all set for the chip manufacturer's production line.
The chip configurations will conform to the chip sets now in use.  An
important point here..last week we told you about a date on the TOS, well,
we were off by two days....the correct date: February 22, 1989 is the
date stamp on this 'final' version.



- New York City, N.Y.              **** WATCH OVER HANOVER ****
  ------------------

      ATARI CORP. ..Is Hanover going to mark the true beginning of Atari's
resurgence in the USA?  The entire nation of loyal Atari Users anxiously
await any word, that by their actions (Atari), will signal that the full 
effort has begun.



- Chicago, IL.         *****  SPRING COMDEX TO BE THE 'SPRINGBOARD'  *****
  ------------

      Traditionally, Comdex has been the "unveiling" or debut center for
the major product releases for most major companies involved in the 
computer world.  This Spring's edition of Comdex promises to be a veritable
"Horn-O-Plenty" when it comes to new products from a large majority of 
computer manufacturers nationwide.  Hopefully, Atari will be there, we 
were unable to obtain any info to confirm Atari will be at the Spring 
Comdex Show.  Software and hardware developers are 'loaded for bear' for 
this year's Springtime Show.  From all early indications the industry 
undercurrent sez; "Don't miss this one!"  STReport will if Atari is not 
there....it is rumored that Atari, in it's infinite wisdom, might pass on
Spring Comdex ..we certainly hope NOT!



- Rockville, MD.     ***** GEnie Announces NEW Programmer Conference *****
  -------------

       A Programming Club for All ST Programmers (Beginners and 
Professionals Alike)!  First Meeting: Tuesday March 14, 10pm EST, in
Conference Room #3.  Planned for the first conference is programmer
Dorothy Brumleve.  If you enjoy programming, please plan to attend.



- Rockville, MD.            ******  SAM TRAMIEL TO TELL ALL?  ******
  -------------
      Sam Tramiel will be joining us on March 15th, 7pm PST - 10pm EST in
a formal conference.  The Head man at Atari once will attempt to hold an
online conference.  Hopefully, this time he will have more "to the point
answers" for the attendees.



- St. Louis, MO.        ******  PAGESTREAM 1.51 IS SOLID!  *****
  --------------

      The good folks at Soft Logik are well ahead of themselves at this
time with PageStream.  The version most of us have, 1.51, has proven 
itself to be even more reliable than PP.  Concentrated effort is now being
applied by Soft Logik it their ongoing efforts to continually improve a 
fine program to make it even better. 





--------------------------------------------------------------------------



> ScoutWorld 89 STR Focus
  =======================




                             ======================
               *------=====  IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT  =====------*
                             ======================


                                 ST J.A.U.G. 

                      in it's ongoing commitment to support

                                      the

                             BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

                                      and

                                  ATARI CORP.



PROUDLY ANNOUNCES...
-----------------
                                 SCOUT WORLD 1989
                                 ================

                               MAY 19, 20, 21, 1989

   Location:              JACKSONVILLE NAVAL AIR STATION
   --------              Jacksonville, Florida 32205  USA

   More Info:                       904-783-3319
   ---------
                       Last year's attendance 162,457 people.

        ST Jacksonville Atari Usergroup last year set up 27 ST computer
        systems for the enjoyment and pleasure of the show's attendees.

        This year, with Atari Corp.'s assurances  of  assistance to ST.
        J.A.U.G., we have reserved  an 80 foot  booth specifically for 
        the Atari Computer Exhibition and it's supporters.

        In  addition, TWO phone lines will  be operated by STReport and
        ST J.A.U.G. members displaying to  SCOUT WORLD 1989's attendees
        the wonderful world of the Major Online Services and  exploring
        the various aspects of the services and all they have to  offer
        the computer user.  We found the participation last year by the
        attendees in the Online Service Display was excellent.


                          ATARI ..."At the Campfire"

                    "TODAY'S YOUTH ARE TOMORROW'S LEADERS"


                          ------=====***=====------





--------------------------------------------------------------------------





> A "QUOTABLE QUOTE"
  ==================

      

              Poetic Justice
              --------------

                   "...'Tis better to be thought a fool,,,

                                     than

                  to open one's mouth and remove ALL DOUBT!"




                           "1989 - ATARI'S QUEST"


--------------------------------------------------------------------------
 ST-REPORTIssue #78   "Your Independent News Source"      March 10, 1989 
                   ALL RIGHTS RESERVED    copyright 1989
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Views, Opinions and Articles Presented  herein are not necessarily those 
 of ST Report or CPU Report.   Reprint permission granted, unless noted 
 otherwise.   All reprints must include  ST Report or CPU Report  and the 
 author's name.  All information presented herein is believed correct, ST 
 Report or  CPU Report, it's editors  and staff are  not  responsible for 
 any  use  or  misuse  of  information  contained  in  this  publication. 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
